windows & glazing approaches
Window design and selection is enormously
important to all 5 Star houses and creates an opportunity
to be smart with design.
creative design
Optimise window shape and size – big is not always
best.
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Why full length windows if the view is better framed at
sitting height? |
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New furnishing options abound when items can be placed under a
window, rather than in front of one. |
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Different window shapes give a building a different
look – imagine
a diamond, square or port-hole for instance, capturing the view of
a tree and introducing a new shape to the walls. |
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Reflect or complement an unusual window shape with the
roofline or in detailing. |
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 |
window positioning
Same shape, different place – orientation and siting of rooms.
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Bring the magic of lightening eastern skies to the kitchen
and bedrooms, making mornings special. |
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Restrict a west-facing window to standing height to take
advantage of the setting sun's beauty, without needing to cover up a large
window expanse to protect furniture and fabrics from summer afternoon
glare. |
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Consider small windows on the south to reduce heat loss. |
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Block out neighbours and let in light with mixed materials
in window areas. |
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Frame any views and be strategic letting in light rather
than using windows as an alternative wall material. |
timber window
frames
Use timber window frames as they have far better
thermal properties than most alternatives – the conductivity
of aluminium for instance is typically about 1700 times
greater than timber. To minimise ongoing maintenance consider combining
attributes in a timber frame with an aluminium skin.
double
glazing and high performance glass
To maximise window performance
consider thermally improved glass or smart use of double
glazing. Simple alternatives which save on heating and
cooling costs, glazing solutions are much-favoured in second
and third homes.
» Further information on windows and reaching
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